I rolled up my sleeve because …
“I wanted to be able to be around my friends and family again. I also chose to get vaccinated so when I was working with kids all summer, I knew I wouldn’t be risking any of their lives with the possibilities of ‘what if.'” — Paige Winberg
Dear Students,
Classes begin in just 52 days, and many students are moving back to campus even sooner to join their athletic team or student group! We know the entire The University of Olivet family is looking forward to a fall semester filled with in-person activities and classroom instruction. This is why it’s so important to make your plan to get the COVID-19 vaccine if you have not already done so. The OC community is doing a great job, but we must continue to stick together, stay educated and uphold our shared responsibility.
In this week’s communication, you’ll read about the following:
- A reminder about being safe.
- How to stay educated.
- Share your “why.”
- Vaccination resources.
Stay Safe and Healthy
On June 22, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued a rescission of emergency orders pertaining to COVID-19. The rescission of these orders means there are no longer any state-wide restrictions and requirements as it pertains to social gatherings and face coverings. This is positive news reflecting the progress Michigan has made in fighting the pandemic, but we are not out completely of the woods. By remaining aware and making considerate decisions, you will continue to keep your family, community and state safe and healthy.
We hope you will enjoy your summer and reconnecting with loved ones in a responsible and thoughtful manner. Consider taking advantage of the sunshine and warm weather to gather outdoors, support a local restaurant by dining on their patio, keep your social bubble small, and remember, thorough hand washing is key to slowing the spread of bacteria and viruses.
Stay Educated
As policies change and new best practices are recommended, it’s important to stay educated on COVID-19 information and resources. Please continue to engage with emails from The University of Olivet CARES, and view information and the OC CARES Pandemic Response Plan anytime at www.olivetcollege.edu/occares.
In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hosts a COVID-19 dashboard with the most up-to-date and accurate information. The dashboard includes a full guide on scheduling a COVID-19 vaccine through becoming fully vaccinated and what to expect at every step. In addition, information on COVID-19 variants and data trackers are also available.
What’s Your Why?
Students, faculty and staff: Have you been vaccinated or are you making your plan to be vaccinated? Share a photo or short video with a message to your OC family about why you chose to be vaccinated. Paige shared her why. Now it’s your turn. CLICK HERE to share your why.
Vaccine Resources
- Check your local health department or hospital website to find out their process or for registration forms. On the left side of the page above the map of Michigan, select your county or the City of Detroit. Next, on the right side of the page, click on the link under “COVID-19 Vaccine Information.”
- Meijer is now offering COVID-19 vaccinations for walk-in or by appointment, making it even more convenient for you to receive a shot. Bonus: Meijer is also offering a coupon for $10 off your next purchase if you complete your vaccination series at a Meijer store!
- Check additional vaccination sites, such as local pharmacies like Rite Aid, Kroger, Walmart (Mid/Central and Northern MI) or Snyder Drugs (U.P. residents).
- Olivet Pharmacy offers the Moderna (2 shot) vaccine. Students, faculty and staff are welcome to schedule an appointment with the pharmacy for the free vaccination by calling 269-280-5005.
- For further vaccination sites, text your zip code to 438829 to learn about locations closest to you. A service of the MDHHS, you’ll even be asked if you need to schedule a free ride or if you need childcare.
- Residents who don’t have access to the internet or who need assistance navigating the vaccine scheduling process can call the COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136 (press 1) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“It is easy to sit up and take notice, what is difficult is getting up and taking action.” — Honoré de Balzac, French author